Things You'll Need:
- Barbie Pricing Guides
- Barbie Accessories
- Barbie Dolls
- Barbie Furniture
- Barbie Houses
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Step 1
Decide whether you are adding to your own collection or someone else's. If you are buying for someone else, find out what items he or she is looking for. Collectors are usually very selective.
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Step 2
Think about the age of the collector you are buying for. Buy noncollector's items for a child who will be playing with them. Buy good condition collector's items for adult collectors.
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Step 3
Learn whether the collector collects for fun or value. If you are buying for a collector of value, you need to make sure you buy items that have a real value. People who collect for fun, such as children, will be happy with a wider variety of items.
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Step 4
Look at your own collection, if you are buying for yourself, to determine what things you would really like to add.
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Step 5
Read a book about Barbie items to get an idea as to what is available and what prices are fair.
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Step 6
Understand that items sold as "NRFB" have never been removed from the box and are more valuable.
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Step 7
Go to Barbie conventions, collector's stores and local Barbie collector meetings to see what is available and to shop.
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Step 8
Know that toy stores carry only new items and only those that are considered mainline. Vintage items are available only from collectors and dealers. New, limited-edition collector items are available from special retailers (such as JC Penney) and from dealers.
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Step 9
Focus on what the collection is missing. Are there only a few vintage items? Do you need more of Barbie's friends? Are more clothes or accessories needed?
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Step 10
Is there a place to properly store all the items purchased?
Comments
angel8019 said
on 2/5/2009 I've been told that Mattel did not tag their outfits during 1973-1978. Is this true?
please respond to: Tippy8019@hotmail.com
angel8019 said
on 2/5/2009 I've been told that Mattel did not tag their outfits during 1973-1978. Is this true?